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Printed on 4/30/2025

Pipefitting Apprentice

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50-435-1 Apprenticeship (A) 16 Credits Not Financial Aid Eligible Location*: Appleton

*If general education courses are required, they may be available at multiple locations.

In the Fox Valley area, pipefitters are primarily employed in the papermaking industry, though there are other businesses that require the installation, repair and servicing of pressure piping and similar equipment. A pipefitter will lay out, cut and bend pipes. You will learn how to install, test, maintain and repair high- or low-pressure piping systems. You’ll also learn how to cut, heat and bend metal. Your training will give you a thorough knowledge of pipe characteristics, particularly related to high or low pressure and chemicals. You’ll also learn the principles of hydraulics and gain welding and soldering skills. This program requires you to first be employed and involves four years of on-the-job training and classroom instruction.

COURSE LIST

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Course list for reference only. Current students please refer to your individualized program plan or see your advisor.
**Outside effort hours are an estimate based on state standards, and may vary from person to person.

    Occupational Specific (16 Credits)

    Course Title
    Course Number
    Credits
    Instructional Hours
    Outside Effort Hours**
    Early College Credit Options
    Prior Learning Credit Eligibility
  • Pipefitter Related 2
    50-435-502
    2Credit
    72
    0
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 0
    • Course Number: 50435502
    • Credits: 2.00

    Consists of trigonometry and related science as it pertains to the field of pipefitting. Science of matter, properties of solids, properties of liquids, properties of gases, work energy power, temperature and heat effects, and change of state are explored. Labs and related hands-on projects are also included.

    Student is in progress in the Program of Study of Millwright-Pipefitter Apprenticeship (50-423-3MILL) OR Pipefitting Apprentice (50-435-1)
  • Pipefitter Related 3
    50-435-503
    2Credit
    72
    0
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 0
    • Course Number: 50435503
    • Credits: 2.00

    Consists of multiview drawings, Isometric drawings, and process pipe drawings. Also covered in process piping are definitions, rolling offsets, and solving parallel offsets. Layout of pipe intersections and uneven angles are studied. Labs and related hands-on projects are also included.

    Student is in progress in the Program of Study of Millwright-Pipefitter Apprenticeship (50-423-3MILL) OR Pipefitting Apprentice (50-435-1)
  • Pipefitter Related 4
    50-435-504
    2Credit
    72
    0
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 0
    • Course Number: 50435504
    • Credits: 2.00

    Consists of steam concepts, steam trapping, boiler accessories, pressure reducing stations, steam piping, and high and low pressure boilers. Trigonometry concepts are reviewed and discussed. Labs and related hands-on projects are also included.

    Student is in progress in the Program of Study of Millwright-Pipefitter Apprenticeship (50-423-3MILL) OR Pipefitting Apprentice (50-435-1)
  • Pipefitter Related 6
    50-435-506
    2Credit
    72
    0
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 0
    • Course Number: 50435506
    • Credits: 2.00

    Covers chemical handling as it relates to the paper industry and local manufacturing in this area. Template development through the use of the Layout w/1000 Ordinate book is practiced. Pipefitter related web sites are also explored to enhance the skill level of the trainee. An introduction to pneumatics and the laws the apply are reviewed and discussed. Labs and related hands-on projects are also included.

    Student is in progress in the Program of Study of Millwright-Pipefitter Apprenticeship (50-423-3MILL) OR Pipefitting Apprentice (50-435-1)
  • Pipefitter Related 7
    50-435-507
    1Credit
    36
    0
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 36
    • Outside Effort Hours: 0
    • Course Number: 50435507
    • Credits: 1.00

    Covers an introduction to fluid-power Systems. Compares and contrast hydraulic systems to pneumatic systems. Discusses the advantages and disadvantages of both hydraulic and pneumatic systems. Topics covered include safety and health, standards and symbols, hydraulic fluid, hydraulic power sources, fluid storage and distribution, actuators, and system control. Labs and related hands-on projects are also included.

    Student is in progress in the Program of Study of Millwright-Pipefitter Apprenticeship (50-423-3MILL) OR Pipefitting Apprentice (50-435-1)
  • Pipefitter Related 8
    50-435-508
    1Credit
    36
    0
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 36
    • Outside Effort Hours: 0
    • Course Number: 50435508
    • Credits: 1.00

    Covers hydraulic systems. Topics include accumulators, conditioning system fluid, and applying hydraulic power. Labs and hands-on related projects are also included.

    Student is in progress in the Program of Study of Millwright-Pipefitter Apprenticeship (50-423-3MILL) OR Pipefitting Apprentice (50-435-1)
  • Pipefitter Related 1
    50-435-511
    2Credit
    72
    0
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 0
    • Course Number: 50435511
    • Credits: 2.00

    Consists of an introduction to the trade that explains the paid related requirements and protocol of attending school. Basic drafting techniques are covered, as well as an introduction to Orthographic Projections. Mathematics are covered, as well as an introduction to trigonometry. Labs and related hands-on projects are also included.

    Student is in progress in the Program of Study of Millwright-Pipefitter Apprenticeship (50-423-3MILL) OR Pipefitting Apprentice (50-435-1)
  • Pipefitter Related 5
    50-435-535
    2Credit
    72
    0
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 0
    • Course Number: 50435535
    • Credits: 2.00

    Consists of the study of various valves and their functions and applications. Also covered in this section is the science of metallurgy and its application to the trade. Rigging is covered, as well as rigging safety and its application to the trade. Pipe insulation and the purpose and applications are discussed and studied.

    Student is in progress in the Program of Study of Millwright-Pipefitter Apprenticeship (50-423-3MILL) OR Pipefitting Apprentice (50-435-1)
  • Welding Processes for Apprenticeships 1
    50-442-507
    1Credit
    36
    0
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 36
    • Outside Effort Hours: 0
    • Course Number: 50442507
    • Credits: 1.00

    Focuses on the basic concepts of Shielded Metal Arc Welding, Gas Metal Arc Welding, and Gas Tungsten Arc Welding processes. Students will learn welding theory as well as how to set up and operate these welding processes and complete labs with proficiency. Troubleshooting, along with specific job applications will be covered with these welding processes.

    Student is in progress in the Program of Study of Maintenance Mechanic/Millwright Apprentice (50-423-1) OR Pipefitting Apprentice (50-435-1) OR Millwright-Pipefitter Apprenticeship (50-423-3PIPE)
  • Welding Processes for Apprenticeships 2
    50-442-508
    1Credit
    36
    0
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 36
    • Outside Effort Hours: 0
    • Course Number: 50442508
    • Credits: 1.00

    Focuses on the basic concepts of Shielded Metal Arc Welding, Gas Metal Arc Welding, and Gas Tungsten Arc Welding processes. Students will learn welding theory as well as how to set up and operate these welding processes and complete labs with proficiency. Troubleshooting, along with specific job applications will be covered with these welding processes.

    Student is in progress in the Program of Study of Maintenance Mechanic/Millwright Apprentice (50-423-1) OR Pipefitting Apprentice (50-435-1) OR Millwright-Pipefitter Apprenticeship (50-423-3PIPE)
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Expected Competencies

For more information visit our Credit For Prior Learning page.
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Eligible Dual Credit Course

What is Dual Credit?

FVTC courses taught at the high school by certified high school teachers. These teachers receive mentorship from FVTC faculty to ensure alignment in competencies, curriculum, and assessments.


  • Students earn both high school and college credits, with grades applying to both transcripts.
  • There is no cost to the school district or family.
  • Dual Credit course availability varies by high school based on factors such as lab space, equipment, and teacher qualifications.

Process:

As part of the annual course planning, students and families should meet with their High School Guidance Counselor to discuss future college and career goals. This conversation will help identify Dual Credit courses that best align with specific pathways.

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Recommended Start College Now Course

What is Start College Now?

Qualified public-school juniors and seniors may enroll in college level classes at FVTC or online, if a comparable course is not offered within their district.

Student Eligibility Requirements:

  • Must have parent/guardian approval.
  • Must meet all course entry requirements.
  • Must be in good academic standing with an acceptable disciplinary record.

Application Process:

Interested students should consult their High School Guidance Counselor to explore course options and complete a “Start College Now” application. Applications must be submitted to High School Counselors by March 1st for fall courses and October 1st for spring courses. If approved by the school board, the cost is covered by the high school.

×

Eligible Dual Credit & Recommended Start College Now Course:

What is Dual Credit?

FVTC courses taught at the high school by certified high school teachers. These teachers receive mentorship from FVTC faculty to ensure alignment in competencies, curriculum, and assessments.

  • Students earn both high school and college credits, with grades applying to both transcripts.
  • There is no cost to the school district or family.

**Dual Credit course availability varies by high school based on factors such as lab space, equipment, and teacher qualifications.

What is Start College Now?

Qualified public-school juniors and seniors may enroll in college level classes at FVTC or online, if a comparable course is not offered within their district.

Student Eligibility Requirements:

  • Must have parent/guardian approval.
  • Must meet all course entry requirements.
  • Must be in good academic standing with an acceptable disciplinary record.

Application Process:

Interested students should consult their High School Guidance Counselor to explore course options and complete a “Start College Now” application. Applications must be submitted to High School Counselors by March 1st for fall courses and October 1st for spring courses. If approved by the school board, the cost is covered by the high school.

×

N/A

This course is not available for Dual Credit or Start College Now due to factors such as course rigor, necessary equipment, and prerequisite requirements.